Villopoto leads the 450 championship heading into Pala this weekend.

Monster Energy Kawasaki’s Ryan Villopoto has credited jumping aboard the 2012 KX450F as the turning point in his season in this years Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship.

In a season of highs and lows for all of the top three riders battling for the championship, Steel City saw Villopoto grab another win and extend his points lead going into the final round of the season this weekend at Pala Raceway.

“It was really tough out there,” said Villopoto.

“Overall the track was very hardpacked, especially if you were riding in the ruts. It was pretty slippery also, especially after they watered it, so you had to be careful for the first couple laps until you found your rhythm.”

“In practice I was able to shave three seconds off my lap time by exploring new lines. I connected my lines and was able to carry my momentum a little better around the track that lap.”

After a questionable start to the 2011 season, Villopoto slowly gained momentum as the series has progressed, citing the arrival of the next years model machine a major benefit in his great form of late.

“Everything is great on my 2012 KX450F, we did a little adjusting with the suspension for the second moto and it seemed to work out,” he commented.

“For me, Unadilla was the turning point this season because I was finally able to use the 2012 KX450F, and it has worked out great. I’m really happy with today’s result and I’m looking forward to getting to Pala and wrapping this season up.”

Villopoto currently holds a 14 point advantage over nearest rival, Rockstar Makita Suzuki’s Ryan Dungey, as the showdown prepares to unfold this weekend at Pala.